So you’re looking for the best budget winter wetsuit to buy, and naturally, you’re searching for the warmest and most durable options without breaking the bank.
We get it. Knowing what to look for can have challenges, especially if you’re on a budget!
How does the price of a wetsuit reflect on quality? What features should you be looking out for? As experts in wetsuits, our guide will answer all these questions while highlighting some of our latest, favourite models with advanced technology for the ultimate wetsuit experience.
WHAT MAKES A WINTER WETSUIT THE BEST IN 2023?
Many factors contribute towards how good a winter wetsuit is. The good news is nowadays, especially if you’re looking for a budget wetsuit, there are some excellent options that you can buy for a reasonable price.
Wetsuit development has progressed so much that you don’t need to compromise on staying warm in cold water, even if you’re looking at entry-level wetsuits. For starters, all entry-level wetsuits are now made from quality neoprene and generally have stitched thermal linings to keep you warm.
WHAT MAKES A WINTER WETSUIT THE BEST IN 2023?
Many factors contribute towards how good a winter wetsuit is. The good news is nowadays, especially if you’re looking for a budget wetsuit, there are some excellent options that you can buy for a reasonable price.
Wetsuit development has progressed so much that you don’t need to compromise on staying warm in cold water, even if you’re looking at entry-level wetsuits. For starters, all entry-level wetsuits are now made from quality neoprene and generally have stitched thermal linings to keep you warm.
So, let’s look at some of the best buys on the market today. If we are looking at the price, then the first wetsuit for men & women that springs to mind would be:
RIP CURL FREELITE 5/3 WINTER WETSUIT
One of our least expensive winter wetsuits for men, the Rip Curl Freelite 5/3mm wetsuit is perfect for those looking for the ultimate bargain! This winter wetsuit is perfect if you participate in many forms of water sports, such as surfing, between the cold months of November to April.
It aims to keep you feeling toasty through its 5mm neoprene on the body and legs while ensuring maximum flexibility in its batwing back and strategic panel. Its super stretch neoprene will allow you to move without restriction - every surfer’s dream! If you are looking for something cheap, cheerful, but reliable, this suit won’t disappoint you. This wetsuit is also available for women!
RIP CURL OMEGA 5/3 WINTER WETSUIT
The Rip Curl Omega is a reliable and loved wetsuit that has been running with us for years, and we don’t feel like letting go anytime soon! Its smooth appearance is just as streamlined in the water in a sleek slate colour, offering the perfect balance of mobility and protection. It is easy to peel on and off as a back zip suit, which is especially useful in the colder months between December and April.
Complete with E5 neoprene, it excels in flexibility, perfect for surf manoeuvres, but can be used in other watersports too! This suit is available in black or blue.
C SKINS LEGEND 5/3 BACK ZIP WETSUIT 2024
The C-Skins Legend 5/3 Back Zip Wetsuit is an ever-evolving wetsuit range by C-Skins, and 2024 sees its finest design yet. The body offers extra stretch through the Xtend neoprene, which features at the top half of the body, meaning you can paddle with ease!
A defining feature of this suit is the True Thickness neoprene, which, as the name suggests, offers incredible insulation and puts it right at the top of the leaderboard for wetsuits in this price range! The additional Antifreeze Ploy pro chest and back panel means you are kept that little bit toastier! Its Super Seal Glideskin collar prevents rashes and reduces water entry for ultimate comfort.
ALDER STEALTH 5/4/3 BACK ZIP WINTER WETSUIT 2024
Just over the £150 mark, our Alder Stealth 5/4/3mm Back Zip Winter Wetsuit is the perfect entry-level wetsuit for those just starting out. Featuring glued and blindstitched seams, this suit provides warmth in the water so you can enjoy your activities. The Duratech knee pads add to its longevity, making it a great first suit to invest in!
THINGS TO CONSIDER FOR A WINTER WETSUIT
Below, we offer some more guidance on winter wetsuits, including what to look out for and any neoprene accessories you will need to stay warm!
WHAT WETSUIT FIT DO I NEED?
We can’t emphasise enough how important the correct fit is. If it wasn’t important enough when buying a mid-season or summer wetsuit, it is even more essential in the winter and colder waters. If you’re unsure, please feel free to contact us at Wetsuit Centre, and we can guide you.
Below, we provide a step-by-step guide on how to size the perfect wetsuit for you.
DO I NEED GLUED AND BLIND-STITCHED SEAMS?
The warmer suits will have glued and blind stitched seams. These seals will keep excess water from leaking into your suit, keeping you warmer for longer.
WHAT WINTER ACCESSORIES ARE BEST FOR SURFING?
If you intend to use your winter wetsuit in the coldest of months, make sure you also buy neoprene wetsuit gloves and boots. The best buys in this would be the O’Neill Epic 5mm Boots accompanied by our winter wetsuit gloves!
At a lower price range, you are unlikely to find a hooded wetsuit; however, you can simply purchase a separate hood to complete your winter wetsuit apparel! Our website has plenty of different wetsuit hoods for you to choose from.
We hope this article has helped you understand the differences between some of the wetsuits and what we consider to be the best value. If you have any questions, feel free to message us on Facebook or email our team, we'd be happy to help!